Brazilian popstar Anitta has released a new music video for the song ‘Aceita’, in which she celebrates her faith and connection with Candomblé, an African-based religion. However, what should have been a moment of celebration and cultural expression has turned into a wave of religious intolerance, with the artist facing harsh criticism from part of her audience.
Since the announcement of the new project, Anitta has been sharing photos and videos showcasing her relationship with Candomblé, revealing her initiation into the religion and active participation. However, less than two hours after the release of the first images, the singer lost over 200,000 followers on her social media, while receiving a flood of prejudiced comments and hate messages.
The release of the music video generated interest in the term “candomblé”, which surged in Google searches, becoming the 15th most searched topic last Monday (14). In light of the escalating virtual attacks, Anitta decided to speak out, highlighting the importance of religious freedom and condemning any form of discrimination.
“I have spoken countless times about my religion, but it seems that leaving an artistic work in my catalog forever was too much for someone who does not ACCEPT that others think differently. I believe that religions are rivers that flow into the same place: God, the supreme intelligence. I do not believe in heaven and hell; I do not believe in the devil… I believe that we all have the power to manifest the divine and the demonic within us. When I receive messages of rejection and religious intolerance, I do not feel divine energy being emanated to me, I feel the opposite energy. I have faith, I am not afraid,” said the artist.
On another occasion, she said: “I still feel a little scared by the lack of evolution of human beings, right? Nowadays, it is still such a big step backward in terms of accepting and respecting people’s paths. Over time, humans are becoming more intolerant instead of accepting each other more, respecting each other more, and the opposite is true.”
The singer also emphasized the importance of combating religious intolerance. “For all the people who unfollowed me or who commented on my photo with disgust, I think it’s important to leave it there so that people can see that this exists, that it is there, and needs to be fought. Fight with love, not with anger, none of that,” she stated.
The confrontation has sparked a broader debate on the topic, where cases of intolerance have become increasingly frequent.
Anitta may have lost followers, but she continues to make headlines in major international newspapers.